The Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) recently awarded 17 projects $2 million in state funds for fiscal year 2026 to support discretionary transit projects. Funding was distributed to 10 transit agencies to advance MaineDOT’s 2023 State Transit Plan’s goals and other statewide initiatives.
The agency selected projects based on how well they help remove barriers for new riders, address the needs of underserved populations in rural areas, upgrade transit facilities and fleets, transition to more environmentally friendly vehicles, increase access to transit service, improve public information about available transit options, and support work force and labor needs.
“Our goal is to provide accessible transportation options for all, including those who don’t have access to personal vehicles,” Acting MaineDOT Commissioner Dale Doughty said. “These awards help expand opportunities and address transportation needs throughout our state. We look forward to working with our transit partners and the communities they serve.”
The awardees include:
- Aroostook Regional Transportation System was awarded $343,211 to extend and expand a successful workforce transportation project.
- Bangor Community Connector was awarded $320,603 for improved bike racks, a hybrid Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible vehicle, and mobile fare payment technology.
- Biddeford Saco Old Orchard Beach Transit was awarded $383,850 for technology improvements, a southern Maine microtransit project, and the purchase of an electric bus charger and a hybrid bus.
- Regional Transportation Program was awarded $187,715 for microtransit pilot projects in Harrison and Gorham/Standish.
“New services like these will make it easier for our neighbors to stay connected to their communities while strengthening transit access in towns that have been underserved for far too long,” added Don Libby, executive director of Regional Transportation Program.